Club suspends Barton

FORMER Blues ace Joey Barton has been suspended from Newcastle FC until further notice. The controversial 26-year-old from Huyton, Merseyside, who was sent off for a reckless challenge against Liverpool on Sunday - which cost him a three-match ban and ended his season - has been told to stay away as Alan Shearer attempts to save the club from relegation.

FORMER Blues ace Joey Barton has been suspended from Newcastle FC until further notice.

The controversial 26-year-old from Huyton, Merseyside, who was sent off for a reckless challenge on Liverpool's Xabi Alonso on Sunday - which cost him a three-match ban and ended his season - has been told to stay away as Alan Shearer attempts to save the club from relegation.

A club statement said: "Newcastle United can confirm that Joey Barton has been suspended from the club until further notice.

"The club will be making no further comment on the matter at this time."

A report suggested the former Manchester City midfielder was involved in a furious dressing room bust-up with Shearer after the game at Anfield.